Flowers and Their Effect on Us

We all love flowers, don't we? Now researchers are proving that flowers have a significant positive impact on our lives.

A number of years ago, at Harvard Medical School a behavioral research study showed that fresh-cut flowers have an important role in our lives. Psychologist Dr. Nancy Etcoff said, "I'm particularly intrigued to find that people who live with flowers report fewer episodes of anxiety and depressed feelings. Our results suggest that flowers have a positive impact on our well being." That research study also found that living with flowers can provide a boost of energy, happiness and enthusiasm at work."

In 2005, a Rutgers University behavioral study had similar findings. Said Jeanette Haviland-Jones, professor of psychology at Rutgers, "Common sense tells us that flowers make us happy. Now, science shows that not only do flowers make us happier than we know, they have strong positive effects on our emotional well being."

In a Society of American Florists report on that 10-month-long Rutgers study, it is noted: "Flowers have an immediate impact on happiness. Flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Flowers make intimate connections."

Dr. Andrew Weil, author of "Healthy Aging," among many other books, includes bringing flowers into one's home among the eight important steps to aging gracefully. "Any activity that makes you feel more alive, more connected to others and to nature, less isolated, more comfortable with change, is beneficial. It will enhance your physical and mental health."

Dr. Haviland-Jones of Rutgers agrees. "Happier people live longer, healthier lives and are more open to change. Our research shows that a small dose of nature, like flowers, can do a world of wonder for our well-being as we age."